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They Bleed Pixels

They Bleed Pixels

Developer: Spooky Squid Games

Platforms: PC

Release Date: August 29, 2012

With the glut of 8-bit inspired action-platformers that have populated the Steam marketplace over the last few years, it can be hard finding one that's truly different. It's the super-tight combat system of They Bleed Pixels that makes it so damned fun to play and when placed in its challenging level design, there's a lot of enjoyment to be had.

The soundtrack to They Bleed Pixels is also one of its highlights, mixing deep grim tones with a vibrant beats for an unusually pleasing medley. It's one of the few elements that promises never to drive you bonkers after repeated failures.

One of the best elements of the game is its checkpoint system that allows players the freedom to store up energy by pulling off rad combos against enemies before laying down a save point for themselves. This adds an extra dimension of challenge as players must balance the risk and reward of saving frequently, or holding off until they need it. In They Bleed Pixels, you can never be entirely certain what trouble lays ahead.